Lions suffer double blow for derby

The Lions have reportedly lost two key members of their backline for the Vodacom URC clash against the Sharks at Ellis Park on Saturday.

According to Netwerk24, the Pride will be without fullback Quan Horn and centre Henco van Wyk for the derby match in round 12 of the competition.

Horn is believed to have hurt a toe in last week’s defeat by the Vodacom Bulls while Van Wyk, also recently invited to the Springboks’ alignment camp, is sidelined for three weeks with an ankle injury.

Lubabalo Dobela is likely to step in at fullback for his Lions debut, with Manuel Rass set to replace Van Wyk at outside centre.

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Lock Ruben Schoeman, who was sent off against the Stormers in December and banned for five matches, is poised to make his long-awaited return.

“I let my teammates down that day when I got a red card,” Schoeman was quoted by Netwerk24. “I want to prove myself again against the Sharks on Saturday and make up for what happened in the Cape.”

Looking ahead to the Sharks clash, he highlighted the need for accuracy: “Our work rate must be high. We have to execute low tackles and stop them from gaining momentum.”

Saturday’s match is the Lions’ last at Ellis Park for six weeks before a return fixture against the Sharks (8 March) and a three-game overseas tour.

Photo: Gordon Arons/Gallo Images